The Valpo Parks Foundation held its annual "Friends & Legends" reception at the Butterfield Family Pavilion on Thursday, October 1. The event, free and open to the public, was organized to celebrate and honor community members who have contributed their time and talents to support the foundation's mission for Valparaiso’s parks.
The evening commenced at 5 p.m. with an hour of socialization and food before the award ceremony began at 6 p.m. Valpo Parks Foundation Board President Tim VerSchure noted that the "Friends and Legends" event provides an opportunity to acknowledge the significant contributions from community members.
Three awards were presented during the ceremony. Linda Eyermann received the Art and Irene Malastro Legends Award, which recognizes individuals or businesses for their support of Valpo Parks through volunteer service, financial contributions, or leadership. Eyermann shared that her appreciation for art and parks makes her involvement a natural fit, stating it was an "easy blend for me" to engage in artistic activities with the parks.
Phil Ross was honored with the Community Champion Award, an accolade for individuals demonstrating leadership and stewardship within the community. Ross expressed his gratitude, noting the significance of receiving the award in Kate’s name and the legacy it represents for his children.
The John Seibert Service Award, which recognizes those who have significantly supported or promoted the Valpo Parks system through dedicated time and talent, was presented to the Valpo Sunrise Kiwanis Club. Philip Hahm detailed some of the club's contributions, including painting sidewalks, providing musical instruments at Tower Park and Kyle Park, and hosting ice cream socials at park ribbon cuttings. Hahm also mentioned securing grants from local and state Kiwanis foundations to support the musical instrument installations.
The Valpo Parks Foundation, a nonprofit organization established in 1988, is dedicated to supporting the Valpo Parks Department. The foundation works to connect people and community resources to maintain high-quality park facilities and programs, aiming to reflect and enhance Valparaiso’s quality of life. VerSchure emphasized the vital role parks play, calling them the "lifeblood of the community." He highlighted that parks benefit all segments of the community by enhancing property values, supporting businesses, and serving as resources for youth, without discrimination.
In addition to the "Friends & Legends" reception, the foundation hosts four annual events to support the Valpo Parks mission, including a lip sync battle, a golf outing, and an upcoming toy drive in December. VerSchure also mentioned ongoing developments within the city that the foundation aims to elevate, such as the grand opening of the Tot Spot at Kirkhoff Park and the future development of a new recreation center.